In InterVarsity, we value the God-given value and dignity of all people.
In a world that is often divided by racial lines, we work towards diversity while pursuing unity and equity in our communities. We believe God invites us into communities where we both learn about and work through our unique cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Join us at Fall Retreat to see how TOGETHER IS BETTER when we live into God's purposes for reconciliation and justice.

October 4-6
Heartland Retreat Conference Center
Marengo, OH
*Cost: $150

Registration Extended 'til September 22 at 11:59pm!!

*Scholarships available. Scholarships are distributed based on need and as funds are available. As a general rule, scholarships will not exceed 50% of the conference fee.

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Heartland Recreation Options

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SPEAKERS

​Rich Johnson
Lead Pastor, Sanctuary Columbus
Richard Johnson is the founder and lead pastor of Sanctuary Columbus, a vibrant multiethnic church dedicated to nurturing disciples who embrace diversity and engage in meaningful service. Central to his ministry is empowering individuals to recognize their inherent worth. Alongside co-hosting The Elusive Dream Podcast with Dr. Korie Little Edwards, Pastor Rich serves as a Spiritual Director with Healing Care Ministries.  Known for his gift of connecting diverse communities, Pastor Rich uses his speaking, facilitating, and networking talents to foster unity and positive change in Columbus. His interests include music, fitness, cinema, and exploring the writings of contemplative thinkers such as Howard Thurman, Henri Nouwen, and St. Bernard of Clairvoux.  Pastor Rich holds degrees from Morehouse College, The College of William and Mary, and North Park Seminary, where his theological foundation is rooted in Micah 6:8—advocating for justice, showing compassion, and walking humbly with God. He and his wife Shalla (20 + years) are proud parents to four active children and a family dog.  

Christy Gates
InterVarsity National Director of Scripture Engagement
Christy has been on IV staff for 20 years. First, she was on campuses in Chicago and then San Diego. Then she joined the Scripture Engagement team in 2018. She has served as the National Director of Scripture Engagement since 2020. Fun fact, Christy went to grad school and worked as a physical therapist before joining InterVarsity staff. Christy is married and has two stepkids, and her husband Marvin is a helicopter pilot. She currently lives in Michigan. If you want to say hi to Christy but you don't have a Bible question or don't know what to talk about with her, Christy likes: reading, mountain biking, playing soccer, and video games (latest she's played are Elden Ring, Ghost of Tsushima, and Fallout 4, and one of her faves is Horizon Zero Dawn)

Paul Cullen
Pastor of NextGen and Young Adults, Vineyard Columbus
Paul Cullen currently serves as the Pastor of Next Gen and Young Adults at Vineyard Columbus, where he has been on staff for 9 years. Prior to his current role, Paul served several years as a worship pastor at the Vineyard upon graduating from The Ohio State University.

Tammy Eckhart
InterVarsity Regional Ministry Director, Rivers & Rails